The Whitsdom Press

Tag: crime

  • The Midtown Redevelopment Authority: Unveiling Corruption and Its Impact on Houston

    The Midtown Redevelopment Authority (MRA) in Houston, Texas, recently found itself at the center of a significant corruption scandal. This authority, established to foster urban renewal and improve the quality of life in Midtown Houston, is now facing serious allegations involving the misuse of millions of dollars in public funds. This article delves into the details of the corruption charges, the individuals involved, and the broader implications for the community.

    Houston Mayor Whitmore and Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg announce corruption charges linked to the misuse of $8-10 million in public funds at the Midtown Redevelopment Authority.

    The Corruption Charges
    On June 21, 2024, Houston officials announced the arrest of three individuals connected to the MRA for their roles in a scheme to embezzle approximately $8.5 million. The accused include Todd Edwards, the real estate asset manager, Veronica Ugorji, a contractor for the MRA, and Kenneth Jones, another contractor​. These individuals face first-degree felony charges, which could result in life sentences if they are convicted.

    The charges stem from allegations that the accused misappropriated funds intended for the redevelopment of the Third Ward, a historic neighborhood in Houston. Instead of using the money for community improvements, the funds were reportedly spent on luxury items such as flashy cars, expensive homes, lavish trips, and even pornography​.

    The Investigation

    The investigation, led by the Texas Rangers with assistance from local prosecutors, was prompted by complaints from concerned citizens. Brian Van Tubergen and Ed Pettit, residents of the Third Ward, noticed a lack of redevelopment in their neighborhood and repeatedly raised their concerns at MRA board meetings. Their persistence paid off, as their complaints eventually led to the uncovering of the corruption scheme​. Van Tubergen and Pettit described the ongoing issues in their community, including vacant lots overgrown with weeds and abandoned houses that became hubs for criminal activity. Their vigilance highlighted the misuse of funds that were supposed to be allocated for maintenance, demolition, and redevelopment projects​.

    The Role of the MRA

    The MRA operates within a tax increment reinvestment zone (TIRZ), which uses tax revenues to finance public improvements and spur economic development in specific areas. However, the relationship between the MRA and the TIRZ can be complex and confusing for the public. The oversight of these funds is supposed to be managed by a board of directors, typically appointed by the mayor and the Commissioners Court. Unfortunately, in this case, the oversight was grossly inadequate, allowing the corruption to go unchecked for years​.

    Extensive Impact and Next Moves

    The corruption scandal has led to a wider discussion about the importance of stronger oversight and transparency in redevelopment authorities and TIRZs across Houston. Mayor Whitmire stressed the need for fiduciary responsibility and announced plans to review all TIRZs in the city to prevent similar issues in the future. He also urged citizens and employees to share any information about potential misconduct. District Attorney Kim Ogg emphasized the crucial role of public accountability and the need for independent investigations to uncover corruption. The case against the MRA is ongoing, and additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.

    The corruption scandal involving the Midtown Redevelopment Authority highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in public institutions. Misusing public funds not only hinders community development but also undermines public trust. As Houston moves forward, the lessons from this case should lead to stronger oversight and a renewed focus on ethical governance, ensuring that public resources benefit all citizens.

  • Tragedy Strikes: Reflecting on the Memphis Block Party Mass Shooting

    In the wake of last weekend’s mass shooting at the Orange Mound Block Party event in Memphis, the nation finds itself once again grappling with the devastating impact of gun violence, particularly among our youth. The incident, which left two deceased, serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address gun violence in Memphis. Such incidents not only leave scars on the survivors but also reverberate through the entire society, raising questions about safety, security, and the future of our youth.

    Here’s a post from the X app showing the shooting take place. An initial report stated there were 16 gunshot victims, however, after a follow-up investigation, there were actually eight victims; including two male victims.

    There were about 300 people at the block party at Orange Mound Park on Saturday, April 20th and sometime in the evening, two people began shooting into the crowd. According to Fox13 Memphis, a 17yr old boy and a 22yr old man were found dead at the scene. Crimestoppers of Memphis and Shelby County PD have received many tips since the mass shooting, however no suspects have been arrested. Between the US Marshals and Crimestoppers, there is a reward of $25,000 being offered for information leading to the arrest of the people responsible for the shooting, who could also face federal charges.

    Check out the news story from Fox13 Memphis featuring a mother of one of the deceased victims.

    While overall crime rates have seen fluctuations over the years, teens remain disproportionately represented in various criminal activities, including homicides, assaults, and robberies. Factors such as socio-economic disparities, access to education, mental health challenges, and community environments all play significant roles in shaping these outcomes.

    In Memphis, like many other urban areas, teens often face numerous socioeconomic challenges, including poverty, lack of access to quality education, and exposure to violence in their communities. These factors can create a fertile ground for crime and delinquency, perpetuating a cycle that is difficult to break without concerted efforts from multiple stakeholders.

    Investing in youth development programs, providing access to quality education and mental health services, and addressing systemic inequalities are crucial steps in addressing the root causes of teen violence. Additionally, enacting sensible gun control measures and implementing community policing strategies can help reduce the likelihood of such incidents and ensure the safety of all citizens.

    The only thing about THAT is… Tennessee lawmakers are pressing a bill to arm teachers at schools; making it legal for teachers to carry guns on campus and in the classroom.

    If you know who was responsible for the shootings or have any information that could potentially help investigators identify the suspects, authorities urge you to contact CrimeStoppers by calling 901-528-2274 (CASH). All tips can remain anonymous.

  • FBI Investigates Dolton City Hall Amid Corruption Allegations About Mayor Tiffany Henyard

    In a recent turn of events, the FBI has launched an investigation into corruption allegations surrounding Mayor Tiffany Henyard of Dolton, Illinois. The situation has drawn attention and raised concerns about the integrity of local government. Let’s delve into the details of this unfolding case.

    The Allegations

    Mayor Tiffany Henyard has faced accusations of reckless spending and financial mismanagement during her tenure. Trustees who oppose her have raised concerns about the village’s financial stability, alleging that her decisions are driving Dolton into a multimillion-dollar deficit. These allegations prompted further scrutiny and led to the involvement of federal authorities.

    Federal Subpoenas and Court-Authorized Action

    On Friday, April 19th, federal agents delivered multiple grand jury subpoenas to Dolton Village Hall seeking records related to the ongoing corruption investigation. Although the subpoenas do not specifically name Mayor Tiffany Henyard, they are part of the broader inquiry into potential wrongdoing. Notably, Keith Freeman, a close ally of Henyard and the chief administrator of Dolton, was recently charged with bankruptcy fraud in a related investigation.

    The FBI confirmed that they were conducting court-authorized law enforcement activity in Dolton but declined to provide further details due to Department of Justice policy. It is important to note that the investigation into Mayor Henyard is still in its early stages, and no charges have been filed against her at this time.

    Additional Controversies

    Apart from financial matters, other controversies surround Mayor Henyard. A village employee recently filed a federal lawsuit accusing Henyard, the village, and a village official of non-consensual sexual misconduct during a trip to Las Vegas last May. According to the Chicago Tribune, “The lawsuit alleges that the employee “blacked out” during the trip and woke up in the official’s bed, while another plaintiff, identified as a police officer and member of Henyard’s security detail, witnessed inappropriate behavior by the same official.”

    Conclusion

    As the investigation unfolds, Dolton residents and the broader community await further developments. The case highlights the importance of transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership in local government. Mayor Henyard’s actions and the subsequent federal probe serve as a reminder that public officials must uphold the trust placed in them by their constituents.

  • Tiffany Henyard: A Mayor Under Scrutiny

    Tiffany Henyard, the mayor of Dolton, Illinois, has found herself at the center of a storm. Accusations of theft, cover-ups, and sexual assault have cast a shadow over her leadership. In this article, we delve into the allegations, the lawsuit she faces, and the impact on her community.

    Recently, a civil lawsuit was filed against Mayor Henyard. The lawsuit alleges that Dolton Village Trustee Andrew Holmes sexually assaulted a former village employee during a work trip to Las Vegas last May. Shockingly, the lawsuit also implicates Mayor Henyard. According to the complaint, she retaliated against the employee when she tried to come forward about the assault. Henyard is accused of attempting to cover up the incident to protect herself.

    The Allegations

    1. Sexual Assault
    The incident allegedly occurred on May 26, 2023, during a conference in Las Vegas. Trustee Andrew Holmes, a well-known community activist, is accused of assaulting the village employee. The victim, who had joined the trip as one of Henyard’s assistants, claims she knew Holmes well and considered him like an uncle. After Holmes gave her a drink, she felt lightheaded and disoriented. She blacked out and woke up the next morning in his hotel room. The Dolton police officer, part of the mayor’s security detail, received a call from Holmes that night, during which Holmes detailed his “exploits” from the trip, many of which were “sexual” according to the lawsuit.

    2. Alleged Cover-Up
    Mayor Henyard’s involvement is equally troubling. The lawsuit alleges that she tried to cover up the incident to protect herself. When the employee attempted to report the assault, Henyard allegedly retaliated against her. The timing is significant, as it coincides with the hiring of former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot to investigate Henyard’s actions, potential misspending, and the Las Vegas trip allegations.

    3. Community Funds and Trust
    While the sexual assault lawsuit dominates headlines, there are whispers within the community about Mayor Henyard’s financial dealings. Some residents claim that she misused community funds for personal expenses. Allegations range from unauthorized travel expenses to questionable contracts awarded to close associates. These accusations have eroded trust in her leadership, leaving many wondering if their hard-earned tax dollars were diverted for personal gain

    Community Impact
    The allegations against Henyard have shaken the community. Residents are left questioning their leader’s integrity and commitment to justice. As investigations continue, Dolton faces a crisis of trust. The mayor’s office remains silent, refusing to comment on the ongoing legal battle. The community deserves transparency and accountability, especially from its highest elected official.


    Tiffany Henyard’s tenure as mayor hangs in the balance. The sexual assault lawsuit and the alleged cover-up have cast a dark cloud over her leadership. As the legal proceedings unfold, Dolton residents hope for clarity, justice, and a path forward. The community deserves answers, and only time will reveal the truth behind these troubling accusations.

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on publicly available sources and should not be considered legal advice. The lawsuit is ongoing, and all parties are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

  • Trouble in the Valley

    The content provides a detailed account of recent events and perspectives related to sexual abuse allegations at the university, whom shall remain anonymous. It offers a balanced view of different reactions to the situation. In light of the recent Katt Williams’ amazing and explosive interview with Shannon Sharpe, people have been coming out of the woodworks speaking on their experiences of long-term sexual abuse, misconduct, and more. To some, it is “clout-chasing” and to others it is “raising and bringing awareness.”

    On January 6th, an alum of a Mississippi HBCU who goes by “Dee Bee” posted on his Facebook account, “____ ____ was the ‘Diddy’ of valley, you gotta tell ____ no.” Within the 318 comments, there were plenty of laughing emojis, gif reactions, some shocked emojis, a few who agreed, and some who told him to not even bother with explaining. One person commented, “He’s not the only one either.”

    But “Dee Bee” went to YouTube with a video telling his thoughts regarding his Facebook post and his personal experiences with sexual advances made towards him and others while attending the university. “Dee Bee” starts off his video with “the (Facebook) post was long overdue in my eyes” and “this is really about people coming forth and telling their truth and telling their side…there’s been so many different times that people had to be quiet (or) things had to be swept under the rug.” He told a story about a young man joining a fraternity on campus, and was later approached at his dorm by his mentor asking “now that you got your paperwork…now that you are one of us, what are you going to do for me?”

    Dee Bee goes on to say that when he was a student at the HBCU, there weren’t people around to advocate for students in situations resulting to sexual harassment. He along with many other students were from out of town, so they had to form their own community and stick up for one another. Dee Bee recalled a few other stories of students who were (allegedly) sexually harassed and assaulted, and prominent staff members either knew or participated. He felt the “gatekeepers” of the university failed the students by providing zero safety or the confidence to report such incidents. At the end of the video, he encouraged his viewers to come forward with their stories.

    The comments of Dee Bee’s video was a mixed bag. One viewer gave her appreciation of “all of these factual points to light” and finishes her comment with stating people on campus misused their positions for sexual gain and if it isn’t discusses it will continue. Another viewer, KB, commented twice; first asking how does this video help the university. His first comment goes on to say, “Sounds just like a person who wants to feel important because these alleged stories is all he got.” Under that comment, people came to Dee Bee’s defense validating what he said. One respondent said, “It will help future students who are violated and harassed while trying to get a college education and join organizations. It ain’t right.” KB comments again asking Dee Bee how he cares about Valley but tear it down without regards to how this could affect enrollment. He goes on to say, “You let that Katt Williams interview trigger your own dislike for Valley.”

    Dee Bee’s video has hit 1,185 views and counting. More people are coming to Dee Bee’s original Facebook post and video repost saying they are proud of him for coming forward. In my opinion, Dee Bee did what needed to be done. Exposing those who were supposed to once teach, mentor, and protect the students as the predators they really are brings awareness to current and future students, as well as their families. But judging him and saying he’s bringing down the morale of the university is wrong. The staff members brought down the morale of the university by doing what they (allegedly) did or not holding those accountable for what they knew was wrong.

    Will this one video inspire others to share their story? Stay tuned…

    If you have been sexually assaulted or harassed, please contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or chat online at online.rainn.org. It is available 24/7 and completely confidential.